tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22324401063131124232017-08-16T11:55:19.270-04:00Diary of a Natural MomTaishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-15755218422830005172015-02-10T01:32:00.000-05:002015-02-10T01:57:55.641-05:00A Special Announcement!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hello all, I know, I know. I promised I would update this blog more often and have not done so but I do have some really good reasons. The past year and the beginning I this one have certainly been eventful for my family.<br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;I have some amazing news to share with you all today. I've been meaning to share this sooner but.... We are expecting baby #3... Any day now. Yes, you read that right. &nbsp;I have been terrible about keeping up with this blog. This pregnancy has been rough with really bad morning sickness, hip, back and pelvic pain and having to take care of two boys who are now 2.5 and 4. My original due date, based on my last menstrual period, which I know for sure, is February 13th (this Friday coming up). However, at my midpoint ultrasound, I was about 22 weeks but baby was measuring 24 so my due date was changed to February 2nd, which was last Monday, a week ago today. Since I tend to have big babies and go over and now have two due dates, we are expecting this baby any day now but knowing that it can always be a couple more weeks before he comes. Yes, HE! Baby #3 is another little boy! My husband, boys, and I can't wait to meet our new addition!<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7o4dNlDn7yA/VNmqz2sl8MI/AAAAAAAAAjg/9AIjz4ZbMhM/s1600/1508082_10204012062690116_5189469622686712205_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--DH7Kfuhb0o/VNmpeCZEqFI/AAAAAAAAAjM/RCG2A-7XsTQ/s1600/10417813_10203373143361271_8687408801359592750_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--DH7Kfuhb0o/VNmpeCZEqFI/AAAAAAAAAjM/RCG2A-7XsTQ/s1600/10417813_10203373143361271_8687408801359592750_n.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our announcement photo from back in June <br />when we first found out I was pregnant.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1DkNTYEqFQ/VNmqKqFypeI/AAAAAAAAAjU/StBYZHu2y4M/s1600/10991448_10204011862845120_1146587495087502976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1DkNTYEqFQ/VNmqKqFypeI/AAAAAAAAAjU/StBYZHu2y4M/s1600/10991448_10204011862845120_1146587495087502976_n.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was from my maternity shoot a few weeks ago <br />at around 38 weeks.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7o4dNlDn7yA/VNmqz2sl8MI/AAAAAAAAAjg/9AIjz4ZbMhM/s1600/1508082_10204012062690116_5189469622686712205_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: start;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7o4dNlDn7yA/VNmqz2sl8MI/AAAAAAAAAjg/9AIjz4ZbMhM/s1600/1508082_10204012062690116_5189469622686712205_n.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Another beautiful image from my maternity photo<br />shoot with Misty Rose Artography.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;"></div><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-49594321955062631002014-12-02T01:00:00.000-05:002014-12-02T01:09:29.152-05:00I'm Back Again!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I can not believe it's been over a year since I last wrote a post! So much has happened and so much has changed in my life in the past year. I have definitely been pretty busy. My boys are now 4 and 2.5, I can not believe how fast time has flown!<br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I promise I have had good reasons for my absence and that, starting now, I will be posting and updating this blog as often as I am able to. In my next few posts, I will be filling you all in on what's going on in my life right now. I also plan to start doing reviews and giveaways again as well as writing more informational posts. Stay tuned for what's to come on Diary of a Natural Mom and, if you haven't yet liked my Facebook page, please do so by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=186031264790965&amp;ref=bookmark&amp;notif_t=like">here</a>. I look forward to interacting with all of you again and getting back to what this blog was originally intended to be!Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-33218287697853918962013-11-05T23:55:00.004-05:002013-11-05T23:55:57.429-05:00The Gentle Parent Review Plus a Giveaway <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zDGgm4W5lt8/Unm37JKj0kI/AAAAAAAAAig/4xxt6cBXWg0/s1600/The+Gentle+Parent+final+cover+high+res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zDGgm4W5lt8/Unm37JKj0kI/AAAAAAAAAig/4xxt6cBXWg0/s320/The+Gentle+Parent+final+cover+high+res.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I am really excited to finally be reviewing the newest book in L.R. Knost's series of gentle parenting handbooks, <i>The Gentle Parent: Positive, Practical, and Effective Discipline</i>. Being new to gentle parenting myself and having two toddlers at home, this was just the book I was waiting for! From day one, I tried to always be sensitive to my babies' needs through breastfeeding on demand, co-sleeping, baby wearing and responding to my babies' cries when they needed me. However, they are almost 3 (this month!) and one and a half now, their needs and behaviors have changed a lot since those early days. I am blessed with two very spirited boys and have found myself looking for gentler ways to guide and teach them. I am far from perfect and have a LONG way to go on my parenting journey, starting with learning to deal with my own emotions and not yelling. Written in L.R. Knost's easy to understand and straight to the point style, this book has come at the perfect time for me!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; This book is unique in that it covers discipline from birth through the teen years. It is awesome to have such a comprehensive research available. It consists of short, easy to read chapters, which is perfect for busy parents like myself. My boys keep me so busy I barely have time to read these days but books like these are super important for me to read. It has definitely given me a new perspective on quite a few things as well as added some new resources to my bag of tricks (which has been pretty limited so far). For example, I never considered the fact that my boys may be learning not to listen to me right away from my always being busy and asking them to wait or not hearing what they say when they talk to me. I have definitely been guilty of being on my phone and not paying attention yet I expect their immediate attention when they are playing and I talk to them. As L.R. says in the book, communication is a two way street beginning and ending with us, the parents. That is just one of the many insights I have gained from this book. If you are looking for a book to help you control your children or turn them into perfect angels that stay out of your way, this is not the book for you. However, this book is a must read for all parents looking for simple, gentle ways to discipline their children while continuing to build and strengthen their relationship. I, myself, can't wait to start implementing some of the new ideas I have learned from it and to see the fruit of my efforts to parent with love and respect.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Now, without further ado, here is the lovely L.R. with a chapter by chapter synopsis of the book:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Introduction</span></i></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 1</b>&nbsp; <i>The Problem with Punishment</i> offers insight on the punishment versus discipline debate.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">A Gentle Beginning&nbsp;</span></i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 2&nbsp;</b> <i>Foundations: Setting the Stage for Discipline</i> shares how our parenting choices in the first days and weeks and months of our children’s lives affect discipline in later stages.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 3&nbsp;</b> <i>Castles in the Air: Building on Trust</i>shows how laying a foundation of trust and building on it day by day, night by night, gentle response by gentle response creates the parent/child relationship essential to gentle discipline. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 4 </b>&nbsp;<i>Safe Surroundings</i> shares simple ways to use baby proofing as visual boundaries to begin gentle limit-setting.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 5</b>&nbsp; <i>Reasonable Expectations</i> offers insight into normal child development and how our expectations affect our parenting.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 6</b>&nbsp; <i>The Three C’s of Gentle Discipline</i>presents the basic tools of gentle discipline and their components.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Toddler Time</i><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 7&nbsp;</b> <i>Sandbox Soapbox: Toddler Insights</i> shares parenting insights from a toddler’s perscpective.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 8</b><i>&nbsp; Toddlers, Tantrums, and Time-In’s, Oh my!</i>gives specific interventions and preventions for coping with and preventing tantrums.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 9</b>&nbsp; <i>When Things Get Physical: Hitting, Kicking, Throwing, and Biting</i> offers tools for working through the physical stage with toddlers and preschoolers.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 10</b>&nbsp; <i>Testing the Boundaries</i> shares insights and parenting techniques for guiding children through testing behaviors.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 11&nbsp;</b> <i>Parenting in Public</i> provides specific parenting tools for coping with behaviors in public places such as parks, shops, and restaurants.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 12</b>&nbsp; <i>Crying Wolf: Don’t Be an Old Yeller</i>! gives insight into the consequences of yelling at children.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 13</b>&nbsp; <i>Toxic Parenting: Spanking, Shaming, Threatening, Manipulating</i> contrasts peaceful, connected parenting with punitive, controlling parenting and their outcomes.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 14</b>&nbsp; <i>All the ‘Right’ Parenting Moves</i> gives insight into the basic truth that we are imperfect humans raising imperfect humans in an imperfect world and therefore no parenting will produce perfection.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>A Preschooler with a Plan</i><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 15</b>&nbsp; <i>Hurting Parents, Hurting Children</i> shares ways parents can heal from their emotional baggage instead of passing that baggage along to the next generation. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 16</b>&nbsp; <i>The Gift of a Strong-Willed Child</i> offers parents with the tools to help children gifted with a rich and vibrant spirit blossom while still providing them with guidance and limits.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 17&nbsp;</b> <i>You’re Not the Boss of Me</i> redefines defiance to give parents a new perspective and offers insights to help parents work through the more challenging behaviors of childhood.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 18</b>&nbsp; <i>A Place for Me</i> shares the value of children having a small space of their own to escape from the stresses and sensory overload that can often spark behavioral issues.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 19&nbsp;</b> <i>When Children Act Out: Reflecting Our Emotions</i> provides insight into the often unexpected outbursts that signal a child’s need for help in coping with family issues.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 20&nbsp;</b> <i>For Everything There is a Season</i>encourages parents to slow down and recognize the basic truth that children are not small adults and to appreciate the beauty of childhood through the eyes of their children.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Middle Childhood: Becoming Their Own Person</i><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 21</b>&nbsp; <i>Thoughtful Cooperation vs. Thoughtless Compliance</i> offers tools for equipping children with inner guidance systems rather than external controls.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 22&nbsp;</b> <i>The Butterfly Effect</i> shares intentional shifts we can make in our parenting choices to change the trajectory of our children’s future. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 23</b>&nbsp; <i>The Color of Change</i> provides step-by-step changes parents can make to move from a punitive, control-based parenting style to connected, communication-based parenting.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 24</b>&nbsp; <i>Bridge Over Troubled Waters: Parenting a ‘Problem’ Child</i> offers insight into the world of the sensitive child and offers parents the tools to guide and support their sensory-gifted children gently and successfully.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 25</b>&nbsp; <i>Raising Problem Solvers</i> shares strategies to help parents provide their children with effective problem-solving tools to take into the future. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Gentle Parenting: Teens and Beyond</i><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 26</b>&nbsp; <i>Children of Violence</i> gives a glimpse into a real-world scenario that children experience every day and offers insight into the root of violence and bullying in our society.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 27</b>&nbsp; <i>The Discipline of Choice</i> examines the life lessons learned through a teen’s their own choices and the value of unconditional support from a connected parent.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 28</b>&nbsp; <i>Helping Hurting Teens</i> compares and contrasts the results of punitive, control-based parenting on adolescents and offers parents alternatives to punishments.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chapter 29&nbsp;</b> <i>Twelve Life Lessons for Daughters</i> and Chapter 30&nbsp; <i>Twelve Life Lessons for Sons </i>reach out and touch parents’ hearts to reawaken their memories of their own adolescent struggles and esteem issues to help them connect with where their teens are so that they can more empathetically and effectively guide them through the often turbulent adolescent years.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Appendix A <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Five Gentle Tools for Handling Lying</i> shares a practical and gentle approach to lying.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Appendix B<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Backtalk is Communication – LISTEN</i> tackles the startling truth that when children talk back they are actually communicating.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Appendix C<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="font-family: inherit;">Twelve Steps to Gentle Parenting: Setting Yourself Up for Success </i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">offers a twelve month, step-by-step approach to work toward a more gentle style of parenting.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 15.59375px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"></div><br /><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 15.59375px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><i style="line-height: 15.582386016845703px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">This post is part of the Virtual Book Tour for the launch of L.R.Knost's newest release</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em;">&nbsp;<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Gentle-Parent-Practical-Discipline/dp/0988995832/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1383711742&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=the+gentle+parent">The Gentle Parent: Positive, Practical, Effective Discipline</a></span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">. Click&nbsp;<a href="http://www.littleheartsbooks.com/2013/10/31/the-gentle-parent-book-trailer-and-tour-schedule/">here</a></span></i><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><i>&nbsp;if you’d like to check out all of the other stops on the tour!</i>&nbsp;</span></span></span><br /><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><br /></span></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">About the Author:</span></span></span></div></div><div style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium; margin: 0px;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XQE7NcoGk4/UnnEtxmpqGI/AAAAAAAAAis/pJaQpN0_gFM/s1600/me+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XQE7NcoGk4/UnnEtxmpqGI/AAAAAAAAAis/pJaQpN0_gFM/s320/me+(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Best-selling parenting and children’s book author and mother of six, L.R.Knost, is an independent child development researcher and founder and director of the advocacy and consulting group, Little Hearts/Gentle Parenting Resources. <i>Two Thousand Kisses a Day: Gentle Parenting Through the Ages and Stages </i>and<i> Whispers Through Time: Communication Through the Ages and Stages of Childhood</i> are the first in her <i>Little Hearts Handbooks</i> series of parenting guides. The newest book in the series, <i>The Gentle Parent: Positive, Practical, Effective Discipline</i> was just released on November 1, 2013. Other works by this award-winning author include the children's picture books <i>Petey’s Listening Ears, </i>and the soon-to-be-released<i> Grumpykins</i> series for ages 2 to 6, which are humorous and engaging tools for parents, teachers, and caregivers to use in implementing gentle parenting techniques in their homes and schools.</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: &quot;Georgia&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Here is the book trailer:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/eYUb5n1kPNo?feature=player_embedded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Buy the book:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; You may purchase the book on Amazon&nbsp;<a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0988995832/ref=cm_sw_su_dp">here</a>. The paperback is only $8.09 and the Kindle version is $3.99, making the book super affordable for parents, just as all of L.R. Knost's books.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>A special bonus:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b></b>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;L.R. Knost will be publishing a series of gentle parenting workshops which will be short and will each cover a specific subject. The workshops will normally be $.99 but on November 10th, the last day of The Gentle Parent book tour, you will be able to download the first workshop in the series, "Getting Started on Your Gentle Journey" for free on Amazon by clicking&nbsp;<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gentle-Parenting-Workshop-Getting-Workshops-ebook/dp/B00G7FDJR8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1383710388&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=l.r.+knost">here</a>&nbsp;so make sure to check back then and get your free copy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>A Giveaway:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">L.R. has been kind enough to offer my readers a chance to win a copy of her previous book, "Whispers Through Time: Communication Through The Ages and Stages", which I reviewed&nbsp;<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2232440106313112423#editor/target=post;postID=3352017041938015578;onPublishedMenu=posts;onClosedMenu=posts;postNum=30;src=postname">here</a>. Giveaway ends Friday, November 8th, 2013. winner will be announced here and on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Diary-of-a-Natural-Mom/186031264790965" style="background-color: white; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 15.582386016845703px; text-align: center;">Diary of a Natural Mom Facebook page</a>&nbsp;once the contest is over. Please see Rafflecopter form below to enter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a9c9014/" id="rc-0a9c9014" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-1485938889806162372013-09-09T18:10:00.001-04:002013-09-09T18:10:08.393-04:00Breastfeeding and Essential Oils<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;About a year ago, I was introduced to the many benefits of essential oils. I had heard very little about them and was using some lavender from the health food store for mood enhancement, relaxation, and well, because I loved the scent. Besides knowing some of the properties of lavender and tea tree oils, I didn't know much else about them until my friend, Carmen, introduced me to doTerra's Certified Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils. The quality and purity of these oils is amazing. I have learned a lot since and am now using oils for all kinds of stuff. I have successfully treated a UTI and was able to get rid of a bump on my toddler's head less than an hour after applying the oils! I am now a true believer and recommend these oils to everyone! Today, I have a guest post from Kristy on how these oils can help with breastfeeding.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Breastfeeding and Essential Oils<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The best food you can give your baby is breast milk.&nbsp; Nothing will keep your baby happier and healthier than breastfeeding.&nbsp;Healthy milk starts with a healthy body, fed whole foods packed with nutrition.Taking a good quality probiotic, whole food vitamins &amp; omega fatty acids will help create the richest, healthiest milk you can make.&nbsp;During times your little one may require more milk, Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade (CPTG) essential oils will be crucial.&nbsp;A CPTG essential oil has been through a rigorous six step testing process and 3<sup>rd</sup>party verified for purity and potency.&nbsp; The oil has been sourced from plants grown in their indigenous lands, contains no fillers, additives or synthetic bi-products.&nbsp;These oils are safe for aromatic, topical and even internal use.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Sometimes babies will go through growth spurts, nurse-ins and teething episodes that will leave them insatiable and you might find your supply struggling to keep up.&nbsp; Using doTERRA’s CPTG Basil, Clary Sage, Geranium or Fennel essential oil will help you achieve higher production during the times you need it most.&nbsp; Apply 1-2 drops to the breast tissue, avoiding the nipple, three to four times daily.&nbsp; There is no need to wash it off in between feedings.&nbsp; You also may take these oils internally in a capsule, in a small amount of water, or under your tongue.&nbsp; Supplementing with zinc has also been known to increase production.&nbsp; Make sure your water intake is at least half your body weight in ounces daily.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;If engorgement or oversupply is impacting your ability to breastfeed or live life normally, CPTG Peppermint essential oil has been known to decrease supply.&nbsp; This is different for everyone.&nbsp; With some moms peppermint has no effect and for others just smelling it will decrease their supply.&nbsp; Applying CPTG Peppermint oil to the breast tissue, avoiding the nipple, or taking it internally should alleviate some of the engorgement.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Dry or cracked nipples are common during the days following birth and the initiation of breastfeeding.&nbsp; This is typically due to improper latch or ties of the lips and tongue.&nbsp; Please speak with your pediatrician to address any lip or tongue tie issues and a Certified Lactation Consultant or Le Leche League leader to address a potential latch problem immediately.&nbsp; Applying CPTG Myrrh, Geranium, Lavender, Roman Chamomile or Sandalwood to the affected area.&nbsp; These oils can be applied diluted with a fatty carrier oil like coconut oil, or undiluted straight from the bottle.&nbsp; There is no need to wash these oils off before breastfeeding your baby.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Some women are more prone to infections and clogged ducts than others.&nbsp; Many moms who tend to have clogged ducts are usually consuming dairy-based products such as milk and ice cream.&nbsp; Try eliminating dairy from your diet to see a difference. &nbsp;Massage the clogged duct gently towards the nipple area in a downward motion.&nbsp; If you do not catch it in time, it can very quickly become a full-blown infection called mastitis.&nbsp; I recommend taking 1000mg of vitamin C every one to two hours and massaging an antibiotic category essential oil into the infected area of the breast.&nbsp; These oils include, but are not limited to Melaleuca, Oregano, Clove and Thyme.&nbsp; I also recommend taking three to four drops of each of the above oils in a capsule every two hours until improvement is seen.&nbsp; After that, four times a day should be sufficient to ward off lingering infection.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; More information can be found by visiting our website at <a href="http://www.eoeducation.com/">www.EOEducation.com</a> or by emailing <a href="mailto:info@eoeducation.com">info@eoeducation.com</a>.&nbsp; These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">About The Author:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lm26IQZYIhs/Ui5Cc0oRGSI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/fYERaDtB22Q/s1600/Kristy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lm26IQZYIhs/Ui5Cc0oRGSI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/fYERaDtB22Q/s320/Kristy.png" width="240" /></a></span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Kristy Hauck of Tampa, Florida founded Essential Oils Education, LLC to help provide communities and families with science based research about the therapeutic and medicinal benefits of CPTG essential oils. After doTERRA changed her family’s life, she knew others would benefit from CPTG essential oils even more than she had.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Kristy moved to Clearwater, Florida from her native state of Colorado in 2007 for a corporate sales job. After getting married and having a beautiful baby boy in January of 2013, Kristy wanted more time with her family. She quit her corporate job to stay home and after some time at home, Kristy stumbled upon doTERRA. After careful investigation, she never looked back. Kristy has a Bachelors of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Colorado State University and currently teaches most of EOE’s essential oil classes. She enjoys spending time with her family, swimming, yoga, kayaking and traveling.</i></span><o:p></o:p></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-10643720450685138072013-09-01T00:52:00.001-04:002013-09-01T00:52:39.427-04:00Mestina's Chic Boutique Supply and Demand Shirt Giveaway<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today marks the end of National Breastfeeding Month. It has been my pleasure to feature so many beautiful nursing stories and guest posts as well as so many fun giveaways and I hope you have enjoyed them. My goal was to post every day this month. I came close but didn't make it. However, I still have some other giveaways and special posts so I will continue posting them during the month of September, make sure to check in often so you don't miss out on the fun!</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ijT_G6LXSWg/UiLHbtQdZwI/AAAAAAAAAh4/9230aHnCz7s/s1600/Supply+and+Demand-+Melissa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ijT_G6LXSWg/UiLHbtQdZwI/AAAAAAAAAh4/9230aHnCz7s/s320/Supply+and+Demand-+Melissa.jpg" width="317" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melissa and her daughter wearing their shirts <br />at the Big Latch On</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Tonight, we have a giveaway from <a href="http://www.mestinaschicboutique.com/">Mestina's Chic Boutique</a>, a small business owned by sisters, Christina Butler and Melissa Butler. They specialize in custom hair bows and hair flowers, tutus , and embroidered shirts. Christina lives in California and Melissa is in Florida. They hold craft shows and offer online sales at </span><a class="_553k" href="http://www.mestinaschicboutique.com/" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">www.mestinaschicboutique.com</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> . You can also find their items online at </span><a class="_553k" href="http://www.facebook.com/mestinaschicboutique" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/mestinaschicboutique</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Breastfeeding is special to them both as they have been each others' support system. Christina breastfed her son for 13 months and Melissa has breastfed for 19 months thus far. Christina and Melissa have offered the chance for one of my readers to win a set of </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 16.988636016845703px; white-space: pre-wrap;">supply and demand shirts for mommy and child. Please see Rafflecopter form below to enter. Giveaway ends Wednesday, September 4th, 2013.</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 16.988636016845703px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yi9M4-Xz0pY/UiLHqQ7aFRI/AAAAAAAAAiA/IGRZMj081w4/s1600/Supply+and+Demand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yi9M4-Xz0pY/UiLHqQ7aFRI/AAAAAAAAAiA/IGRZMj081w4/s320/Supply+and+Demand.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 16.988636016845703px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span> <a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a9c9013/" id="rc-0a9c9013" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-26595566431859349172013-08-29T14:58:00.000-04:002013-08-29T14:58:56.044-04:00“If I can just make it to 3 months of breastfeeding my baby, I’ll be happy…” <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;We are just about coming to the conclusion of National Breastfeeding Month and I hope you have all enjoyed the giveaways and stories as much as I have. I still have a few more posts to put up that may spill over into next month so stayed tuned for more fun. Today, we have a guest post from Anna, who really loves nursing her almost two year old daughter.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“If I can just make it to 3 months of breastfeeding my baby, I’ll be happy…”<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; My baby is turning 2 next month, and I am surprised, excited, and proud to say that I am still exclusively breastfeeding her! I honestly did not know much about breastfeeding before having my daughter and didn’t really care to know anything. I just knew two things: I wanted to try to breastfeed her until she was at least 3 months old, and I didn’t want to be one of those weirdos who breastfeeds their toddler! Who does that!?! Well, I do—that’s who! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Breastfeeding is a challenge and can be very hard, and worse, people don’t talk about how hard it can be. I can remember standing in the shower day after day saying, “I can do this. I can make it to 3 months.” Those first couple months are hard. You’re getting used to the actual act of breastfeeding, you don’t sleep, your nipples bleed or crack, and you are on demand all the time! But I would lay on my couch and breastfeed her for hours on end and feel like I had the best life anyone could ask for. Breastfeeding made me happy, and I knew it made her happy and healthy too. The first time you look down and see your baby smiling at you while she is being nurtured is a high you never forget. After getting over this “hump,” I fell in love with breastfeeding. I was sold! To this day, I always tell people, “You just need to get over that hump and I promise that you will never look back.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Being able to breastfeed my daughter has been one of the greatest gifts that God ever gave me. It has contributed to an indissoluble bond between us that I believe will stay strong till the end of time. I promote breastfeeding not only for this bond and for the unbelievably amazing, natural nutrients, but because it makes you stop and enjoy your time with your child. There’s really no way to rush a breastfeeding session. You must pause, sit, and look down into your baby’s eyes. . . and smile. Then, as she got older, I also learned ways to multi-task while breastfeeding! At least 75% of my emails sent are with my daughter suckling away in my lap as I communicate with clients. Who knew this was possible! However, I still sit down several times a day with her in my lap and focus on her as she nurses. Just us, mother and daughter. It teaches me to slow down and enjoy the time I have with my baby.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I am not a die-hard advocate of breastfeeding, nor do I think it’s always the best way to care for one’s baby. I am just a mom who has had an amazing time breastfeeding my daughter for the past 2 years and watching her grow bigger in my arms each month. People ask me when I plan to stop breastfeeding, but I don’t have an answer. When it feels right, when we are both ready to move on, then we will. Until then, I will continue to cherish these sweet moments I get to have with her, because, before I know it she will be in high school, and, no, I don’t plan to be breastfeeding her in high school.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">About the Author: &nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNDY6CAmziY/Uh-YK_mIMaI/AAAAAAAAAho/Gmy57u5ZUxM/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNDY6CAmziY/Uh-YK_mIMaI/AAAAAAAAAho/Gmy57u5ZUxM/s320/image.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.59375px;">Anna is a single mom who lives in Tampa and works full time from home for a process serving company. She has one daughter who will be two in September. She is passionate about fitness, boxing and keeping both herself and her daughter on a </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.190340042114258px;">Paleo/Primal</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.59375px;">&nbsp;eating plan.</span></i></span>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-88360706429131107682013-08-24T00:52:00.000-04:002013-08-24T00:54:00.586-04:00Wean Me Gently&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; As you all know, I am tandem nursing my 2.5 year old and 16 month old boys. I get the questions all the time, "You're STILL breastfeeding?", "You nurse BOTH of them?" "When do you plan to wean them?", "Why do you still nurse them?", "Don't they drink from a cup yet?", etc. The answers of course are, yes, I am still breastfeeding,yes, I nurse both of them, and yes, they both drink other liquids from cups. Nursing the both for this long has been hard work but well worth it. I nurse my boys for so many reasons. In so many ways it is good for them and for me as well. I plan to allow both of them to self wean when they are ready. Although I get overwhelmed at times and, sometimes, in a fit of desperation, tell my husband I feel like weaning them, I know what is best for them and fully intend to provide it. In reality, I don't want to wean them until they are ready and they are still so small, still my babies. The thought that one day they will no longer need me as much and will no longer nurse is bittersweet, Yes, I'll have more time for me, I won't be as overwhelmed and touched out, and my boys will be growing up and becoming independent, but, at the same time, it is sad to think that we will no longer have these sweet moments. I know our bond will outlast our nursing relationship and we will find new ways to connect, but, for now, I will cherish these sweet moments nursing my precious babies.<br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I found this poem a while ago and, every single time I read it, it makes me tear up. It puts into words exactly how I feel when I think about our nursing relationships coming to an end. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Wean Me Gently</div><div style="text-align: center;">By Cathy Cardall</div><br /><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I know I look so big to you,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Maybe I seem too big for the needs I have.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But no matter how big we get,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We still have needs that are important to us.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I know that our relationship is growing and changing,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But I still need you. I need your warmth and closeness,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Especially at the end of the day<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When we snuggle up in bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Please don't get too busy for us to nurse.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I know you think I can be patient,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Or find something to take the place of a nursing -<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A book, a glass of something,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But nothing can take your place when I need you.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes just cuddling with you,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Having you near me is enough.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I guess I am growing and becoming independent,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But please be there.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This bond we have is so strong and so important to me,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Please don't break it abruptly.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wean me gently,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Because I am your mother,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And my heart is tender.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RJyVoJ5YgSs/Uhg7XutHmyI/AAAAAAAAAhI/jgEo1cYhmJk/s1600/2013-07-09+00.48.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RJyVoJ5YgSs/Uhg7XutHmyI/AAAAAAAAAhI/jgEo1cYhmJk/s320/2013-07-09+00.48.02.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nursing my boys at Busch Gardens<br />while waiting for the fireworks show</td></tr></tbody></table>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-58934542121666234572013-08-22T23:54:00.001-04:002013-08-22T23:54:17.717-04:00CheekyChewy Nursing/Teething Necklace Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JpjCtuAd9_U/UhbbDgxXYhI/AAAAAAAAAg8/L7E65rsJuWI/s1600/Wilda%2527s+Necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JpjCtuAd9_U/UhbbDgxXYhI/AAAAAAAAAg8/L7E65rsJuWI/s320/Wilda%2527s+Necklace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Tonight we have another awesome giveaway from my friend Wilda, who owns the Esty shop,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CheekyChewy?ref=ss_profile">CheekyChewy</a>. Wilda is an elementary school teacher and mother of two beautiful children, Isaac, 2, and Joanelly, 7 months. Wilda likes to craft and crochet in her spare time and started her Etsy shop to make some extra money while doing something she enjoys. She makes beautiful bows for little girls as well as nursing/teething necklaces made with all natural wooden, fabric, and crocheted beads. These necklaces are the perfect accessory for keeping your little one entertained while nursing or babywearing. Not only can they be used as teethers for your little one to chew on, but they also keep twiddling hands in check and keep little one from unlatching to look around while nursing. I can't wait to get my hands on one and, when she isn't so busy and we finally get together, I will definitely be buying one! For more information, or to buy, please visit Wilda's shop by clicking&nbsp;<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CheekyChewy?ref=ss_profile#">here</a>.&nbsp;One lucky reader will one of Wilda's beautiful necklaces. Please see Rafflecopter form below to enter. Giveaway ends Tuesday, August 27th, 2013.<br /><br /><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a9c9012/" id="rc-0a9c9012" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-9846705546604561672013-08-22T17:10:00.000-04:002013-08-22T17:13:04.582-04:00Kirstan's Nursing Journey<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Today, we have a guest post by Kirstan, who was unable to breastfeed her first baby but is happily still going strong with her second, who is almost one.</span><br /><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN">Kirstan's Nursing Journey</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN"><br /></span></div><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;I always knew I wanted to be a breastfeeding mother, the mother with no shame to feed her baby anytime, anywhere. Maybe it was the rebel in me, but I knew it would happen. What I didn't know was I'd be a mother so soon in my life and be pregnant by 16. Being a young mom, as many know, is hard. The world is hard enough without having a baby to take care of while still being a baby yourself. I failed, I didn't try hard enough to nurse and there were too many people in my ear who 'knew better'. Formula won.</span><br /><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Fast forward 5 years and I found out I was pregnant again. I had another opportunity to breastfeed, I WAS GOING TO BREASTFEED! My 2nd son was born and it was my chance to make it all right, to be the mother I wanted to be! I never really had breastfeeding support, in fact, my in laws think it's gross. None of that mattered. He was a champ from the second he was put to my breast, perfect latch and all. IT WAS REAL. I was nervous and a million questions ran through my head, &nbsp;"Can I do this?", "</span>Am I capable?", "Is he getting enough?" Once my milk came in, I was&nbsp; MISERABLE! My breasts were so engorged that my poor baby couldn't even latch. IT HURT! It got to the point where he couldn't eat and I was losing my sanity. My mom, who was there with me on a particularly bad day, rushed to the store and bought a nipple shield and I FINALLY HAD SOME RELIEF! He could get his belly full and I could get a break from the pain! We used the shield for about 3 weeks total because he seemed to have an easier time with it then with having to 'work to latch'. It was a pain, I hated that damn thing. What I tried to do was only use it every other feeding but, at times, he just was too lazy. Finally, one day, we just didn't need it. SWEET FREEDOM! We had reached our 1st month and it was all smooth sailing from there.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDb6Q41OEY4/UhZ9DQbIRZI/AAAAAAAAAgY/PH_fd7knHMc/s1600/Kirstan+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDb6Q41OEY4/UhZ9DQbIRZI/AAAAAAAAAgY/PH_fd7knHMc/s320/Kirstan+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I never really had a goal when thinking I was going to exclusively breastfeed. It was always "I'm going to follow his cues". If a month, or 3 months, or 6 months, I was not the leader in this journey. My body knows more than any textbook and it's just what has always felt right. We are coming up on a year now and, honestly, there is no way I could wean him at this point in our lives. I never knew how truly amazing this experience could be. It's been a very challenging and trying road, full of ups and downs. I think formula feeding &nbsp;babies has its advantages, (with my first, I was able to have more freedom because he wasn't solely dependent on me for food) but I think that having a little less freedom is worth it for the bond we've created. I'm lucky enough to say that Phoenix has never had formula and never will. I am fortunate enough that I've been able to be with my babe for his entire first year and have never had to pump. I PRAISE THOSE WHO HAVE TO PUMP because it's hard and I honestly don't know if I could do it &nbsp;full time. When I'm old and gray and my babies have grown into fathers themselves, I will look back on these days as some of the best of my life, I am truly blessed. <o:p></o:p></span><br /><span lang="EN" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SO2TlbF7lI0/UhZ9K6cNDJI/AAAAAAAAAgg/EGCY0YLiYng/s1600/Kirstan+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SO2TlbF7lI0/UhZ9K6cNDJI/AAAAAAAAAgg/EGCY0YLiYng/s320/Kirstan+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdwz8yymvlk/UhZ9SJdwK-I/AAAAAAAAAgo/8F42y90TO6c/s1600/Kirstan+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdwz8yymvlk/UhZ9SJdwK-I/AAAAAAAAAgo/8F42y90TO6c/s320/Kirstan+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">About the Author:</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6vcUmI7-Fo/UhZ8Q3wN7FI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/Ps6UatdWrYE/s1600/KIrstan+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6vcUmI7-Fo/UhZ8Q3wN7FI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/Ps6UatdWrYE/s320/KIrstan+2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Kirstan is a 23 year old Stay-at-home mama of 2 boys, ages 6 and almost 1.</i></span></span></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-88254222685426767182013-08-20T23:09:00.000-04:002013-08-20T23:18:16.939-04:00Breastfeeding: From a Husband’s Point of View&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Tonight, we have a very special guest post.... from MY HUSBAND! Here is Dan's take on breastfeeding from a man's perspective.&nbsp;</span><br /><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Breastfeeding: From a Husband’s Point of View</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; My wife has been breastfeeding our oldest son, Daniel, for nearly 3 years now. To be completely honest, I was very paranoid when my wife first started breastfeeding. I felt that every single guy that passed by while she was breastfeeding was trying to get a look at her breasts. I mean men will be men, right? You see a woman, shirt pulled down, breast out in the open, you can’t help but look, right? WRONG!!! Let’s be real men, if you find breastfeeding to be even mildly sexual, you have issues. All breastfeeding is, is your baby eating/drinking the most nutritious, healthy food they possibly can be. Not only is it good for the baby but it is good for the mom as well. In fact most people didn't even realize that she was breastfeeding. I think me looking so paranoid caused more attention to us as a couple than our son actually being latched on. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The reason that most people feel uncomfortable around breastfeeding is because they didn't grow up around it and it wasn't part of their everyday lives. The first time I can remember seeing a child being breastfed was when Taisha was pregnant and she and I were sitting in an office waiting for an appointment. The woman was sitting about 4 seats down from us when her son started to fuss. She looked at her husband for approval and then she pulled that whopper out. I mean her breast had to be an F Cup (it was bigger than the baby) and she started to breastfeed her baby. I felt very uncomfortable but at the same time compelled to look. If I felt that way, I would imagine that every guy would. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Today, Taisha tandem nurses both of our sons Joshua and Daniel. Although it is rare that she has to nurse both at the same time in public, it does happen from time to time. I am now 100% for breastfeeding anytime; anywhere. Being that a lot of the people we know now breastfeed, I am around it all the time and don’t even notice when women are breastfeeding. I think that if our society stops making breasts such sexual objects,(don’t get me wrong, I like my wife’s breasts) and helps people understand what they are really intended for, breastfeeding will be part of normal everyday life and that is the way it should be.&nbsp;</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19.09090805053711px;"><br /></span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QkxQi258O_E/UhQqyf3a3jI/AAAAAAAAAgE/MQN7JL5Az08/s1600/17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QkxQi258O_E/UhQqyf3a3jI/AAAAAAAAAgE/MQN7JL5Az08/s320/17.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Psalm139Studios">Psalm 139 Studios</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">About the Author:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="line-height: 107%;">Dan is a husband to his wife, Taisha, for 6 years and has 2 wonderful boys. He also owns a water treatment company called United Environmental Solutions. UES is a distributor for multiple different types of water treatment equipment. For more information, visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.waterpurificationfiltration.net/">http://www.waterpurificationfiltration.net</a>.</span></i></span></div></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-85750974613802132702013-08-19T23:11:00.000-04:002013-08-19T23:11:47.194-04:00Amber's Nursing Journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I hope you are all enjoying these special posts and that you are inspired by the stories that have been shared so far. Tonight we have a guest post from Amber. Here are her two very different stories, marking her journey from feeding her daughter her pumped milk in a bottle for 12 weeks, following a medicated hospital birth, to having a natural, out-of-hospital birth and exclusively breastfeeding her son.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16.988636016845703px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amber's Nursing Journey</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I'm a stay at home mom of a 2.5 year old daughter named Kenady and a 13 month old son named Jaxon. Motherhood has turned me into quite the crunchy mama. I'm a huge advocate of natural birth and breastfeeding. I believe in natural healing and a traditional, nourishing diet. I enjoy cooking from scratch for my family, exercising, and being around my family. I have an extremely lovingly and supportive husband. I wouldn't have accomplished many of my goals without his support. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> When I got pregnant with my daughter it caught us by surprise. We were planning a wedding that was 7 months away, I was finishing up nursing school, and was focused on studying for my state board exams and applying for an internship. I had a lot on my plate to say the least. I was interested in natural birth and had my heart set on breastfeeding! Since I had so much going on, preparing for a natural birth was not a priority. We found out at 34 weeks gestation that Kenady had an issue with her left kidney. The doctors weren't sure how serious of an issue it was, or if I needed to be induced or have a c-section. Anyway, this was my main concern the rest of the pregnancy. Switching to a midwife at that point was out of the question and so was my natural birth plan (since my OB wasn't on board with it). I ended up having Kenady in the hospital (vaginal birth with an epidural) and every thing went well with her delivery. Being a new mom and totally clueless I got caught up in the moment with a lot of family being around visiting in the hospital, new feelings (some baby blues/depression) setting in, and nurse after nurse coming in to check on Kenady and me. I forgot to nurse her for the first 3 hours. When I went to try the first feeding she was so sleepy and would barely open her mouth. I missed that precious 2 hour window after her birth. She wouldn't latch on for anything. I had lactation consultants helping every hour and no success. I panicked thinking about being alone at night without the lactation consultants to help and not being able to feed my baby. A breast pump was offered and I jumped on that! I ended up pumping and Kenady ate like a champ! I had a great supply and was so relieved to be able to feed my baby.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlmx8iRupCc/UhLbramlpgI/AAAAAAAAAfY/93OUFyhLs7o/s1600/Amber+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlmx8iRupCc/UhLbramlpgI/AAAAAAAAAfY/93OUFyhLs7o/s320/Amber+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Kenady</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I ended up renting the pump when we went home and on night 2 I was having a hard time keeping up with pumping and feeding Kenady. I hadn't built up a stash at that point. I remember thinking of giving up and staring at the sample pack of ready made formula the hospital gave me. Luckily, I stayed strong and got past that bump in the road. I ended up building a stash quickly after that. I attempted to nurse Kenady frequently but she already had nipple confusion. She would scream and shake her head back and forth when I attempted to nurse her. This was the most stressful thing I had ever done. I was so depressed that I couldn't nurse my baby. I felt so alone, clueless and helpless. I pumped every 3 hours, including through the night. I was completely exhausted. Getting up for middle of the night feedings didn't just mean feeding my baby and going back to sleep. I had to feed her, usually change her, rock her back to sleep, then stay up to pump for 20 minutes and wash my pump parts, just to get up and do it again 2.5 hours later. I felt like I was bonding with my pump instead of my baby. I remember so many nights pumping while bouncing my crying newborn in her bouncy seat with my foot. I did this for 11 weeks to the day. I started to space my pumping sessions out to get more sleep at night and that quickly made my supply drop. I tried some natural ways to increase my supply but that ended up stressing me out more which increased my depression. I finally accepted that I was going to give up and was okay with that choice. I feel good that I could at least give her a solid 12 weeks (pumped for 11 weeks + 1 week worth of frozen) of nothing but breast milk. If I could start over I would've educated myself much more, reached out for help, and most importantly gone with a natural birth. I strongly believe that would've set the foundation for a much better breast feeding experience. I never would've been introduced to the pump! I was very hard on myself and still regret not trying harder but I learned a lot from my experience and am thankful for that.</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xGQ1jYbCzc/UhLcfqSP1XI/AAAAAAAAAfw/bHHSTuboQrk/s1600/Amber+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xGQ1jYbCzc/UhLcfqSP1XI/AAAAAAAAAfw/bHHSTuboQrk/s320/Amber+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenady nursing Minnie Mouse</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px;"> Fast forward 18 months and we welcomed our baby boy Jaxon! I did not want to make the same mistakes so planned a completely natural birth out of a hospital. I fully prepared myself for a natural birth and breastfeeding. I didn't have nearly as much going on this time around as I did with Kenady. I ended up having the most amazing birth experience I could've ever dreamt. I nursed Jaxon not even 5 minutes after he was born and he nursed like a champ! I was so happy that things went the total opposite than they did the first time around. I feared that I would have many challenges again. I avoided pacifiers and pumps at all costs and never ran into any issues with nursing Jaxon. He is 13 months now and we are still going strong with no intentions of stopping anytime soon. I listened to his cues and still do as to when he wants to nurse. Nursing on demand is very demanding and exhausting in the beginning, but its so worth it and the bond is indescribable. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px;">I love both of my babies the same but felt an initial closer bond with Jaxon because of nursing. I wish I could've had the same start with Kenady as I did with Jaxon, but I'm grateful for what I learned from my experience with her as a newborn.</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FeRO9SldNiw/UhLcKqIkIQI/AAAAAAAAAfo/zfQGlPjWlMY/s1600/Amber+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FeRO9SldNiw/UhLcKqIkIQI/AAAAAAAAAfo/zfQGlPjWlMY/s320/Amber+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first minutes as a family of four<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x4lZvMmKwgM/UhLb5N2NKMI/AAAAAAAAAfg/003tKWuC4V4/s1600/Amber+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x4lZvMmKwgM/UhLb5N2NKMI/AAAAAAAAAfg/003tKWuC4V4/s320/Amber+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Me and Jaxon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table>About the Author:&nbsp;<div><br /></div><div><i>Amber is a Stay-at-home mom to two beautiful children, Kenady, 2.5, and Jaxon, 13 months.</i><br /><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></div></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-39436607698258995692013-08-18T23:55:00.001-04:002013-08-18T23:55:26.238-04:00United Environmental Solutions Big Berkey Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WKfvK4mhajE/UhGV_R3_J7I/AAAAAAAAAfM/0hoAyF4aQfs/s1600/UES+Logo+correct.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WKfvK4mhajE/UhGV_R3_J7I/AAAAAAAAAfM/0hoAyF4aQfs/s320/UES+Logo+correct.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tonight, we have an awesome giveaway from my husband, Dan's company,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.waterpurificationfiltration.net/">United Environmental Solutions</a>&nbsp;(UES). United Environmental Solutions is going on its second full year in business. They have well over 1,000 satisfied customers in four different countries. UES is a water treatment distributor for multiple manufacturers, including Berkey, Propur, Kooltek, Vitashower, Aquacera, and Leveredge (through Southeast Water Systems, Inc.). They are passionate about providing families with clean water and carry shower filters, water coolers, countertop purification systems, sport bottles, and whole house purification systems. To learn more about these awesome products, be sure to visit the UES website by clicking <a href="http://www.waterpurificationfiltration.net/">here</a>. Also, like them on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ueswater">here</a>.&nbsp;We all know every nursing mom needs to stay well hydrated so one lucky reader will win a Big Berkey countertop water purification system with two Black Berkey elements. Please see Rafflecopter form below to enter. Giveaway ends on Sunday, August 25th, 2013.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GDWsf7Q_Jcs/UhGUTVKXohI/AAAAAAAAAe0/ZnKhIGr8ppI/s1600/Big+Berkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GDWsf7Q_Jcs/UhGUTVKXohI/AAAAAAAAAe0/ZnKhIGr8ppI/s320/Big+Berkey.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a9c9011/" id="rc-0a9c9011" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br /><div><br /></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-86683687354419918172013-08-18T00:22:00.001-04:002013-08-18T00:22:58.516-04:00Wilda's Nursing Journey: Two Very Different Stories&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; As we all know, every baby and every nursing relationship is different. Some babies are calm and easy going, others require a little more attention. Some babies latch on like professionals and mom and baby have no trouble nursing, others have every problem under the sun. Here is a guest post from my friend, Wilda, about her very different nursing relationships with her two children.<br /><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> My breastfeeding journey started on April 22, 2011, when my son was born via emergency C-section. He was then taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for being non-responsive and I didn't get to see him for the first 36 hours of his life. I "wasn't allowed" to try and nurse either because of all the medications they had me on. Of course, they gave him formula via feeding tubes to "keep his sugars up". After we were out of the hospital, our struggles continued. He never latched at the hospital and he didn't latch when we got home. In fact, he didn't latch until he was 6+ weeks old. Those first six weeks were full of tears from both of us as well as pain, engorgement, physical healing, and, to make it all worse, my body did not respond to the pump and nothing would come out when I pumped. I tried my hardest to help him learn how to latch. During that time, I met the most caring state worker I have ever encountered. Lauren Johnson helped me daily by answering questions, meeting with me, showing me new nursing positions, telling me what the best choices were if I needed to supplement, and just saying ''Good job Mama, keep going. You're almost there''. Honest and sincere support, that is all you need when you struggle during those first months with breastfeeding, which I did not receive at all from family or other friends. I just kept receiving comments like "Why don't you just leave all passion for it (breastfeeding) aside and just give him formula?", "You had formula too and you're fine'', "Stop wanting to expose yourself to people, feed him at home so he's not hungry when you go out.", or "Wait until you see a bathroom so you can feed him in there". But I was determined to help my baby learn how to latch. Around 6 weeks he just suddenly latched on and he didn't stop doing so until he was almost 20 months and I was pregnant with baby sister. He weaned himself by choice and I still miss those days but I will always treasure each and every memory I have from his breastfeeding months.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> With my second pregnancy, I was even more determined to make breastfeeding the only way of nourishing my new baby. I read more literature and still kept in contact with my now amazing friend, Lauren, who never ceased to say "You got this mama". Our new baby arrived in a beautiful planned home birth and latched within minutes of being born. From that moment on, I knew she was going to be a "boobie monster". However, she had a bad latch that started hurting my nipples and, for the next two weeks, we would work on her latch during every single nursing session to make sure she was doing it right. We went through many nights where the pain of her latch was unbearable and to the point of being completely raw and bleeding but, again, if it wasn't for all the support, we wouldn't still be breastfeeding. This time around, Lauren had her hands a little more busy with her new baby boy but never stopped communicating with me to make sure I didn't quit on a bad day. I also had my husband completely on board as well as my midwife and another friend. Around 8 weeks postpartum, I suddenly did not feel any discomfort when she was nursing, she had finally latched on properly. </span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> A month ago, I was offered a job and I took it so we had to start preparing for my going back to work. We tried so hard for J to take a bottle of breast milk or even a sippy cup. We tried and tried and tried and nothing worked. My first day of work arrived and baby girl had a rough first day but we survived. That was on Monday. Today is Friday and she's already taking breastmilk from a bottle from her caregivers and shenurses almost non stop when we are together. This whole journey has had a lot of hurdles and rough moments but we were always determined to make it work. Today baby girl is 31 weeks and we are still breastfeeding without plans to stop anytime soon. I want to say thank you to those of you that made this possible. To my husband and best friend, who was there keeping me hydrated and nourished, and would take care of toddler during those hard first weeks, my two friends, Denise and Lauren, and to every other mama that has crossed my path and has become an inspiration. Thank you. Our babies and I are really grateful for you.</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="300" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/v/999174_10200216814494337_441046473_n.jpg?oh=7cd80da04660e61b46f444940fbad2af&amp;oe=52124657&amp;__gda__=1376947959_d7b8f6392ba77f263758c41a4a8dbbdd" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My two nurslings</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> About the Author:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hfnh2sms3TI/UhBH0XTNTHI/AAAAAAAAAek/M1Xef5Ql5NM/s1600/Wilda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hfnh2sms3TI/UhBH0XTNTHI/AAAAAAAAAek/M1Xef5Ql5NM/s320/Wilda.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><i>Wilda is 31 years old, is married and is mom to two beautiful babies. She is passionate about life and is against abortion. She loves to laugh, cook, and go to theme parks. She also loves music and dancing and would love to have more babies some day.</i><br /><br />Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-35103722753381163132013-08-17T00:30:00.000-04:002013-08-17T00:30:25.746-04:00Teach Me How To Breastfeed&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I just came across the following video and I absolutely LOVE it! Inspired by the many clients she has helped as well as her own nursing experience, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) TaNefer Lumukanda decided to teach new moms how to breastfeed using a fun, catchy song. The lyrics to song, "Teach Me How To Breastfeed", consist of facts on the benefits of breastfeeding and tips to make nursing easier such as how to properly position baby, nursing on demand, etc. I really love that the video shows women of color nursing, as rates of breastfeeding tend to be lower among them and it is time for that to change. Although this song won't change everything, with it's catchy tune and fun video, I think it is a positive step towards promoting nursing as a normal and healthy part of everyday life. This is definitely a video I would love to share with all of my new mom friends, even if only to make them laugh and forget any troubles they may have in those really intense first few months.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/SZ3QO-7h4YA?feature=player_embedded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><div><br /></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-15352464075876395272013-08-15T23:56:00.000-04:002013-08-18T00:28:02.775-04:00Wearing Is Caring Breastfeeding Advocacy T-Shirt Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VVlltAxAEFA/Ug2ecsjdEKI/AAAAAAAAAeE/IcWv5LVvjBE/s1600/Wearing+is+Caring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VVlltAxAEFA/Ug2ecsjdEKI/AAAAAAAAAeE/IcWv5LVvjBE/s400/Wearing+is+Caring.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 16.988636016845703px; white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp; Tonight, we have a fun giveaway from <a href="http://wearingiscaring.storenvy.com/">Wearing Is Caring</a>, a babywearing apparel company owned by Tiffany Rhodin. Tiffany is a </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">teacher turned Work-At-Home Mom (WAHM) to stay home with her sweet high needs baby. She decided to venture into babywearing/ attachment parenting apparel as these things have been such a blessing in her life. She decided to share her passion for breastfeeding, babywearing, cloth diapering, and planet saving through tee shirts, tank tops, and onesies (to start with). Her business opened July 1st and has been growing ever since. She custom makes everything so we can be flexible as well! Her shirts range from around $13 for a onesie to around $23 for a woman's tee shirt with rhinestones. To check out her designs, make sure to visit her <a href="http://wearingiscaring.storenvy.com/">website</a> and like her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WearingIsCaring">Facebook page</a>. One lucky reader will one one of Tiffany's breastfeeding advocacy shirts. Please see Rafflecopter form below to enter. Giveaway ends this Saturday, August 17th, 2013.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11vig1OlYBU/Ug2itEaKhjI/AAAAAAAAAeU/CpNVidcxj-4/s1600/Keep+Calm+and+Latch+On.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11vig1OlYBU/Ug2itEaKhjI/AAAAAAAAAeU/CpNVidcxj-4/s320/Keep+Calm+and+Latch+On.jpg" width="287" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a9c9010/" id="rc-0a9c9010" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-53834881150465918092013-08-15T00:17:00.000-04:002013-08-15T00:17:07.700-04:00Embarassed by Hollie McNish&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; For the past few weeks, the following video has been flooding my Facebook news feed. Telling the story of a mom who spent the first few months of her baby's life nursing in public bathrooms out of embarrassment, this is, by far, one of the best arguments I have heard in defense of nursing in public. The language is a little strong (not suitable for children) but her words are powerful. I loved this video so much that I did some research on the author. It turns out that Hollie McNish is not just a mom who is passionate about nursing and decided to write about her experience. She is actually a pretty talented poet and spoken word artist in the United Kingdom. She has released two poetry albums, published a collection of written poetry, and won multiple awards. Besides her own poetry performances, Hollie also runs poetry workshops and recitals for youth. Hollie doesn't just write about breastfeeding either, she speaks about other important topics such as the issue of immigration, covered in her very powerful poem, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJX5XHnONTI">Mathematics</a>. If you haven't yet, you should definitely check Hollie's work out at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.holliemcnish.com/">www.holliemcnish.com</a>. Also be sure to check out her&nbsp;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/holliemcnish?feature=watch">YouTube channel</a>&nbsp;for more videos.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/KiS8q_fifa0/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/KiS8q_fifa0&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/KiS8q_fifa0&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-74709459152867545512013-08-13T23:15:00.001-04:002013-08-13T23:15:44.325-04:00Gissele's Second Nursing Journey<blockquote style="background-color: white; margin: 1em 40px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" type="cite"><div style="margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </span><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;Last year, my friend Gissele shared the story of how she was failed by the hospital staff and &nbsp;that, coupled with her lack of knowledge, made her unsuccessful at nursing her first daughter. You can read that story <a href="http://www.diaryofanaturalmom.com/2012/08/world-breastfeeding-week-guest-post-2.html">here</a>. She was pretty determined to do better next time. Tonight, she shares the story of nursing her second daughter.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</span></span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="background-color: white; margin: 1em 40px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" type="cite"><div style="margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">On December 24th, 2012, God gave me a precious gift ! I gave birth to my beautiful daughter Kaylee. Since I became pregnant with her, I knew that I was going to breast feed. Well try to do it longer than with my first daughter and not give up. This time around, I had a better experience at the hospital and I had a lactation consultant or baby nurse. She helped me during my first few hours with Kay. She was so sweet and answered all of my questions without a problem. Kay latched on easier than Lily. Right away, I thought and said to myself "this is going to be a success!"</span></span>&nbsp;</div></blockquote><blockquote style="background-color: white; margin: 1em 40px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" type="cite"><div style="margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The next evening, &nbsp;there was a new nurse. She had started to get her on my nerves, saying to give Kaylee formula because, if I didn't, she could become jaundiced. In my head, I just thought, "Oh boy, here we go again! Ugh!" I didn't listen ad kept nursing . Kaylee was a healthy baby.</span></span>&nbsp;</div></blockquote><blockquote style="background-color: white; margin: 1em 40px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" type="cite"><div style="margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;When I got home, I kept nursing . It had become a little bit more of a challenge for me because I had to take care of Lily and she required so much attention as well. She missed me while I was in the hospital and had already started getting jealous. I also had people saying "You are not producing enough milk", "the baby is skinny", etc. I respected other people's opinions but I did what I thought was best for my baby and, as long as she was gaining weight and the doctor said she was perfect, nothing else mattered.</span></span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="background-color: white; margin: 1em 40px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" type="cite"><div style="margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: left; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, as the days passed by, I was exhausted and I was pumping more than latching. Unfortunately, 2 months later, I became lazy.</span><span style="line-height: 1.2em;">Feeling exhausted and&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 15.596590995788574px;">overwhelmed</span><span style="line-height: 1.2em;">, I just couldn't bring myself to pump all the time&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 1.2em;">and I switched her to formula. I sometimes feel like a failure because I quit once again but I did it for longer this time and I didn't quit right away like I did with Lily. All I know is that, if God decides to give me another baby, I am definitely going to try to breastfeed longer. This experience was amazing!</span></span></div></blockquote>About the Author:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_brAdqga7m8/Ugr1sRDN8ZI/AAAAAAAAAd0/4zsZmDu7za8/s1600/Gissele.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_brAdqga7m8/Ugr1sRDN8ZI/AAAAAAAAAd0/4zsZmDu7za8/s320/Gissele.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16.666667938232422px;">Gissele and is the mother of &nbsp;two beautiful girls, a soon to be 5 year old named Lilyanna and a 6 month old named Kaylee. She's been married for 9 years to her wonderful husband and is a stay at home mom. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16.666667938232422px;">&nbsp;</span></i>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-31385933641560244782013-08-12T20:40:00.000-04:002013-08-12T20:40:02.563-04:00Kristi's Nursing Journey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I hope you have all been enjoying the inspiring and heartwarming stories I have been posting so far. Tonight, we have a guest post by Kristi, whose baby was admitted to the hospital shortly after birth. Here is her story of how they overcame nipple confusion early on and went on to have a beautiful nursing relationship.<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I was induced on March 14th of this year at 4 days past due. We started out rough with an irregular heart rate and I was threatened with a c-section if my baby's heart rate didn't fix itself. About 13 hours later I became 10 cm and was left unchecked in excruciating pain for an hour and a half waiting on my midwife. I went on to push 15 hours into labor. Nine times and 11 minutes later my 8lb 5.5oz bundle of joy was here with us. It was so sweet to snuggle him so closely after 9 long months. We breastfed on the way to our recovery room. Breastfeeding went very well the first 2 days. He took better to the right side over the left but was thriving very well. On our second afternoon, they let us know that he was jaundiced but they weren't doing anything about it. They waited until I had discharge papers thrown in my face to tell me, "Oh, by the way, we need to admit your son to the nursery for light therapy but you are going home and there's really not a place for you to stay with him". I cried for hours and my husband brought a wad of cash to the hospital to pay cash for me to stay another night. When I asked the nurse how much it would cost to keep the room for the night, she said "Oh, you cant afford it. You need to make a college fund for your son instead". I was livid. Right then, he didn't need a college fund. He needed his mommy.&nbsp;</span><br /><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> In the end, they let me stay free of charge and with medication and meals. They told me I was only allowed to feed my baby every 3 hours and for only 45 min each. And THEN the real heartbreak set in. They forced me to bottle feed my son. He was stuck on the bottle for a week after we came home. I cried every time I tried to get him to latch. My milk had come in as we were being discharged from the hospital (day 3) and by the time I had gotten home (15 min) I had grown 2 cup sizes. I stayed engorged like this until I pumped everything. On the 5th day, I was able to feed him breast milk from a bottle and I just kept pumping every 2 hours until I was empty. On day 7, I tried to latch him again, AND HE DID IT! I cried like a baby I was so happy. He has refused a bottle and pacifier since that day. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Recently, from July 16th through July 27th, he went on a nursing strike. He refused to eat until he was completely famished. It put a really big rift in my relationship with my husband. I wanted to cry all the time and had to leave Aden with his father a few times just to go outside and cry. I wanted to give up so badly but I didn't because I knew I was giving him the best no matter how hard it was for me. Being a mother is about sacrificing yourself for your child and that's exactly what I was doing. On the 27th, it all ended and he hasn't refused since! He is actually a much happier baby now too!</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="192" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/v/1080408_10151818555946202_1667814659_n.jpg?oh=b0b1a78bb52ae15a9c28a46a325b54ab&amp;oe=520B846A&amp;__gda__=1376541016_ad5cb713ed7b2ecc2a14c305691e9ff3" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first time he latched back on after the nursing strike</td></tr></tbody></table>About the Author:<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="191" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/v/1085342_10151818570101202_647908903_n.jpg?oh=5b6a6e110f7b0136f13328970b4525bf&amp;oe=520C1988&amp;__gda__=1376527669_220d39ef9cebb83fc4bbb710949f387e" width="320" /></div><br /><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i style="font-family: inherit;">Kristi is a 23 year old mother of one amazing boy, Aden, who is 4 1/2 months old. They enjoy their babywearing and breastfeeding adventures.</i></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-45683157777845040562013-08-12T17:24:00.000-04:002013-08-12T17:24:47.334-04:00Cute Tooties Crocheting Boobie Beanie Giveaway<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zON1h6d2YQ/UglQKQ4WWwI/AAAAAAAAAdk/oxMXAEAlPpY/s1600/Stephanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zON1h6d2YQ/UglQKQ4WWwI/AAAAAAAAAdk/oxMXAEAlPpY/s200/Stephanie.jpg" width="188" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stephanie</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">My children and I had a late night last night and I fell asleep while putting the kids to sleep&nbsp;</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">and forgot to put this post up. Oops! Well, I promised today's post would be fun so here goes.... We have a giveaway today from </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cute-Tooties-Crocheting/368689783240404" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cute Tooties Crocheting</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">, owned by Srephanie Otero. Stephanie is an Air Force wife and stay at home mom to 3 boys. She started crocheting during her third pregnancy, thinking she'd finally have a girl and wanting some cute handmade items for "her". Now she loves crocheting during her free time to relax. Stephanie is giving away a boobie beanie in honor of National Breastfeeding Month. Please see Rafflecopter form below to enter. Giveaway end Wednesday, August 14th, 2013. Boobie beanies can be purchased for $10 and are available in different "skin" tones. Stephanie can also make custom items at customers' request.</span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/v/1098466_10200131764448112_1001821419_n.jpg?oh=c003e2bfa4b00589868919f602f1e3f4&amp;oe=52046C59&amp;__gda__=1376119339_65a84fbbd6b46a0cc24c6fd534898551" style="cursor: move; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="258" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stephanie's youngest son modeling <br />one of her creations</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><img height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/v/1148993_10200130572058303_1669932187_n.jpg?oh=c0a15c3c1541d1a626eebd1c93544d8f&amp;oe=52049B29&amp;__gda__=1376106459_5f691d9d801bcd4056c1af8a43b43acb" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">One lucky reader will win the boobie beanie on the right</td></tr></tbody></table><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a9c909/" id="rc-0a9c909" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-64036082149320615782013-08-10T23:18:00.001-04:002013-08-10T23:28:18.392-04:00From Bottle to Tap: Carol's Nursing Journey<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">As part of my ongoing National Breastfeeding Month celebration, today we have a guest post from Carol. Here is the story of how she persevered and, after months of exclusively pumping, finally got her baby to latch. &nbsp;</span></span></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I thought nursing was going to be easy. After all, we wouldn't have survived as a species if it wasn't simple, right? So, when my son was born, I hadn't bothered to do much research about it and I was in for a rude awakening. Latching was an issue from the very beginning and everyone seemed to have different advice on how to breastfeed. I went home hopeful that everything was going to work like it was supposed to. I don't know how many times I called the lactation consultant in tears the first couple of days but I finally figured out to express milk before nursing to make it easier for my son to latch. I was soaking cloth diapers before every feeding and decided to utilize those bottles they send home with you (for formula I suppose) and offer breast milk in a bottle to my fussy frustrated baby. It was like night and day, the contented, quiet, happy baby that was finally satiated. I would have done anything to keep him happy so off to the store we went for a pump. I figured it was only going to be temporary since I was determined to make breastfeeding work.&nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I started pumping and giving my son a bottle, it was hard work but I knew he was getting what was best so </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;">it was worth it. Soon, I was cursing the bottles that had to be washed and dreaded being hooked up to a pump for over 5 hours a day rather than snuggling my little newborn. Why, oh why, hadn't I gotten that double pump? Baby was also sleeping longer and I had to set an alarm to wake up and pump and it seemed that no sooner had I fallen asleep than baby would wake up and want a bottle. I decided to do my research this time but I didn't find a whole lot of information on getting an older baby to latch. I had also developed a huge over supply issue as I was pumping enough milk to feed twins and then some. So, armed with what info I did find, I started trying to relearn how to breastfeed.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I slowly worked on our latch and, once that was decent, I started to wean off the pump. It took almost two months to transition from exclusively pumping to nursing and I found I had to nurse in positions I never had thought possible to make it work. After 3 months of exclusively pumping and another 1.5 of transitioning I finally pumped my last on Jan 7th. We have faced more normal challenges since then of course: biting, distractions and of course nursing a soon to be toddler that likes to stand on his head. Just recently it was discovered that my son is lip as well as tongue tied and, as I look back, I suspect that this was the root of our troubles in the beginning. My baby is almost a year old now and I don't see weaning in our future. Breastfeeding was a bumpy road but I am so glad we stuck to it and persevered in the end.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>About the Author:</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/v/1062914_10200305499625240_717846479_n.jpg?oh=2eac94564bcab061714855bf32a53615&amp;oe=52095A00&amp;__gda__=1376386472_0cec0e866785485b09b34083db407457" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/v/1062914_10200305499625240_717846479_n.jpg?oh=2eac94564bcab061714855bf32a53615&amp;oe=52095A00&amp;__gda__=1376386472_0cec0e866785485b09b34083db407457" width="240" /></a><i style="font-family: inherit;">Carol is a 30 year old stay at home mommy to a wonderful almost one year old boy. She loves to craft and sew and is also active in her local La Leche League and babywearing groups.</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-73139199859583218352013-08-09T23:33:00.001-04:002013-08-09T23:39:13.078-04:00Jamie's Nursing Journey, Times Two<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Today, we have an inspiring guest post by my friend Jamie, mother of beautiful twins, Annie and June, who have been fighters from the start. Here is the story of their nursing journey so far.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; November 2011: &nbsp;I was pregnant and had a beautiful plan involving a birth center, Bradley classes, doulas, midwives, a natural birth in a tub, and going home hours later with my baby. Then I had an ultrasound and saw the two sweetest blobs you've ever seen and threw all those plans out the window.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;I did not get to carry my twins to full term; I made it to 34 weeks before complications from Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome almost took the life of one of my girls. I did not get to have my natural birth; my babies were both breech. I did not get immediate skin-to-skin; baby A was born with breathing difficulties, her lungs not ready for this world, and baby B was growth-restricted and weighed just 2 pounds 4 ounces, and both were whisked to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). &nbsp;Not only did my babies leave my sight during my hospital stay, but they had their own room for almost a month. But I had given up enough of my wishes during this experience, so when I was discharged, I moved in with them.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I pumped from straight out of recovery to bring my milk in, though I ached for my babies instead. I bottled and stored, washed and sterilized. I watched, every three hours like clockwork, as my colostrum, and soon enough, milk, left a syringe and traveled through feeding tubes to two tiny tummies. Watched my tiniest baby struggle to digest it, while thanking God she had the most digestible substance on Earth to learn from. I held them close as soon as I could, carefully maneuvering many wires and tubes, and pumped while gazing into their beautiful little -- oh, how little -- faces. Upon laying them down, I went from Mama Lamb to Mama Lion &nbsp;as I faced incredulous doctors, insisting on speedy weight gain and calorie counting. I advocated for my children and pushed my body to new limits: sleeping in a plastic recliner while healing from surgery, my circadian rhythms accounting for the difference between a normal beep and an alarm on the monitor; showering in the NICU lobby washroom; watching my girls being poked and prodded and all the while being loved and adored by the nurses. I sat patiently by with my pump and my jug of water, and asked and waited for the chance to breastfeed. It came at 7 days old.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gbtNWb6Rz0/UgHqgMzITmI/AAAAAAAAAZY/OhliCWLayt0/s1600/photo+(23).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gbtNWb6Rz0/UgHqgMzITmI/AAAAAAAAAZY/OhliCWLayt0/s320/photo+(23).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Syringes filled with pumped milk <br />for the girls' feeding tubes<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I remember the first time I fed Annie, my big baby A, at the breast. I was ready for a fight - we WILL do this, my love - but when I placed her to my breast I melted. She was a pro, a natural; all the interventions had nothing on this little person's instinct. In that moment, she changed me, and for future moments, she saved my breastfeeding relationship with her tiny sister, June. Oh June -- &nbsp;it wasn't quite so easy for June. She struggled much more when it was her time at the breast. She had the most delicate flutter of a suck -- both pounds of her trying to follow Annie's lead. And then the cry. And my fear of over exerting a two-pound baby. So the tube stayed in. And when Annie and I had to go home, the bottle replaced the tube. Progress towards home, but not so much towards breastfeeding. So as scared as I was to bring this peanut of a baby home, I pushed to have her out of there. One week after Annie, at 24 days old and 3 pounds 5 ounces, June joined us.</span></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CATbw1HjtL8/UgHq_V6FERI/AAAAAAAAAZg/iPfNLAJQ-sM/s1600/photo+2+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CATbw1HjtL8/UgHq_V6FERI/AAAAAAAAAZg/iPfNLAJQ-sM/s320/photo+2+(1).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nursing Annie in the NICU</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 19.190340042114258px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">While more comfortable in my element, having two babies at home was difficult, and nursing did not progress with June for some time. I missed the constant reinforcement of the nurses that I could do this and it would happen in time. Thankfully, I had endless support from friends, family, and the La Leche League, but when it came down to it in the middle of the night, it was my personal struggle. As I continued to exclusively breastfeed Annie without bottles, I would attempt to nurse June, and follow up with a bottle and a pumping session. But I was not pumping enough daily to keep up with her, and dipping into my almost depleted freezer stash would not be possible much longer. I contemplated having to make a choice to continue to nurse Annie and pump for June while also supplementing with formula. I couldn't bear the thought until a conversation with my sister left me with the mantra, "Make every drop count. Do all you can until you can't." So I relaxed and focused on what I could do right then. I held my girls constantly. I wore them. I nursed Annie and encouraged June to nurse. I poured love onto them, thick and rich.</span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;" /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; On July 12, everything changed. June nursed&nbsp;at 10am, and did not follow up with her usual hungry cry 30 minutes later. She made it 3 hours, in fact! So I just nursed her again&nbsp;at 1:00. And then again&nbsp;at 4:00. And coincidentally we were attending a La Leche League meeting that night&nbsp;at 7:00. I had my backup bottle of pumped milk but I did not need it -- June nursed 3 times in that meeting, and as sad as it is that I had to throw away that bottle of milk, it is because June had had her last bottle ever. She was 6 weeks old, and July 12 was my due date. And like that, our breastfeeding relationship was born.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lcFLm6DZlus/UgHrNmI81aI/AAAAAAAAAZo/dROPm9-eGxo/s1600/June+2+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lcFLm6DZlus/UgHrNmI81aI/AAAAAAAAAZo/dROPm9-eGxo/s320/June+2+(2).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attempting to nurse June in the NICU</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I had other breastfeeding challenges along the way, &nbsp;but they all paled in comparison to the joy of our journey, and the knowledge of the gift of breast milk. Choosing to forgo bottles gave me a unique opportunity to commit to my daughters' survival needs 24/7, which has shaped our relationship to this day. And boy is it more convenient these days!&nbsp;They exclusively nursed (Annie for 7 months and June for 9 months when they each took to solids in their own time) and continued to nurse just as often even with the introduction of solids until 12 months. They now nurse whenever their little hearts desire. They are beautiful, healthy, bright, and hilarious 15 month olds. They are independent but cautious. They love animals and instruments and making new friends, and at the end of the day, they are comforted at the breast.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;" /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I &nbsp;have a deep respect for every mother's choice (because I certainly know the physical and mental strain of breastfeeding, and lets face it, motherhood in general), but that makes me no less proud -- fiercely proud -- of what I've given my children. It was the most challenging, and most fulfilling role I will ever play. And I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">I return to teaching full-time next week -- for the first time since bed rest began. I will miss the days with my girls, no doubt about it. But I don't worry about them. They are strong, they are adaptable, and best of all they have each other. And at the end of the day, they will still be comforted at mommy's breast, long after they wean.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">About the Author:&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QpXAes2udd4/UgHqSwnHBqI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/YEyDHHpvjCE/s1600/photo+(24).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QpXAes2udd4/UgHqSwnHBqI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/YEyDHHpvjCE/s320/photo+(24).JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QpXAes2udd4/UgHqSwnHBqI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/YEyDHHpvjCE/s1600/photo+(24).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div></div><div style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; zoom: 1;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Jamie is a kindergarten teacher with a degree in cultural anthropology. She practices most aspects of attachment parenting with Annie and June and is a devoted follower of Dr. Sears. She loves animals, the mountains, singing, and playing Irish music. She lives in Riverview with the twins, her partner Neil, and her first-born babies: boxers Gabby and Ava.</i></span></div><div><br /></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-65035336535388818242013-08-09T00:39:00.001-04:002013-08-09T00:39:56.915-04:00Seeds of Mommy Soul Gift Certificate Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b01RzCj1g5w/UfoFaJQrcsI/AAAAAAAAAXI/iTMybj4G744/s1600/Seeds+of+Mommy+Soul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b01RzCj1g5w/UfoFaJQrcsI/AAAAAAAAAXI/iTMybj4G744/s320/Seeds+of+Mommy+Soul.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;I hope you have been enjoying my special World Breastfeeding Week and National Breastfeeding Month posts so far. To continue the celebration, today we have a giveaway for a gift certicate towards doula and/or lactation counselor services from Gaetane Joseph of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.seedsofmommysoul.net/">Seeds of Mommy Soul</a>.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QF5Fmiu1sc/Ufqor2aZ14I/AAAAAAAAAXg/LL3pomAS_7w/s1600/65242_10101966066638541_451681906_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QF5Fmiu1sc/Ufqor2aZ14I/AAAAAAAAAXg/LL3pomAS_7w/s200/65242_10101966066638541_451681906_n.jpg" width="156" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.59375px;">Gaetane Joseph is a mother of 3 who started her journey into birth during high school where she volunteered at her local hospital's Labor &amp; Delivery. After the birth of her son in 2008, she began to provide support to mothers who had breast feeding challenges by becoming a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor. In 2010 she had a successful HBAC (home birth after cesarean) which she credits her midwife and Doula. Gaetane felt empowered and that every woman should also feel supported through such a beautiful journey in their life; thus becoming a Doula and Certified Lactation Counselor. She provides &nbsp;t</span><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1375339372_0" style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.59375px; outline: none;">Doula services</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.59375px;">&nbsp;in hospitals, birth centers, and homes. Check out her website over at&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.seedsofmommysoul.net/" style="background-color: white; color: black; line-height: 15.59375px; outline: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1375339372_1" style="line-height: 1.2em; outline: none;">www.seedsofmommysoul.net</span></a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.59375px;">&nbsp;for details on her services and to schedule your free consultation. Also, make sure to like her Facebook page&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Seeds-of-Mommy-Soul/196909073718612">here</a>.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.59375px;"><br /></span></span> <div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gaetane has generously donated a $200 gift certificate which is good towards her doula and/or lactation counselor services. One lucky winner will receive this wonderful gift which includes a consultation, 2 prenatal visits, unlimited communication, labor support, breastfeeding support, and one postpartum visit. See Rafflecopter form below to enter. Giveaway ends Saturday, August 10th, 2013.<span style="text-align: center;">·</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; text-align: center;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</span></div></div><br /><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a9c908/" id="rc-0a9c908" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-8717909321505855962013-08-08T03:03:00.001-04:002013-08-08T03:03:14.621-04:00Our Big Latch On Shirt Fiasco&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; At last year's Big Latch On (the second one I participated in), I noticed a few moms and even some babies that had cool breastfeeding advocacy shirts on. I thought this was a great idea and wondered why I didn't think of doing that myself. I decided that I wanted to have cool shirts for me and the boys to wear this year. I was going to order a set of Supply (me) and Demand (the boys) shirts from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MestinasChicBoutique">Mestina's Chic Boutique</a>&nbsp;but ended up having to spend the money on something else. I resigned myself to not having shirts again this year. Until I went on Facebook and saw all the pictures being posted by girls in one of my mom groups of the shirts they had made or bought for themselves and/or their children for the event. On Friday, my husband, Dan, &nbsp;checked with a print shop near his work and they wanted $45 for my shirt and $35 for the boys'! I also checked with&nbsp;<a href="http://wearingiscaring.storenvy.com/">Wearing Is Caring</a>, since I was informed that they have a new breastfeeding design. I am not fond of the "Keep Calm..." stuff going around but she also had the International Breastfeeding Symbol. However, it was just too late to order from anywhere (for a reasonable price) being that this was the day before the event. There was no way she could get me a shirt printed on time.<br /><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Since most of the girls I knew were making their own shirts to save money, I thought maybe I could do the same. I had considered it when I realized that I wouldn't be able to order the shirts from Mestina's and we even had some iron on printer sheets but our printer was low on ink. After realizing that I would not be able to buy a shirt, I decided to give making my own another chance. I posted in the mom group and asked if anyone could help me. A really sweet girl named Yadi, who had made really cute matching shirts for her and her daughter, responded that she could make the iron on patches for me for $5 a sheet. She also told me Michael's had some plain shirts on sale for about $3. I got super excited! Daniel helped me choose which variation of the International Breastfeeding Symbol to use and what text to put on the shirts. We ended up going with the tandem nursing symbol for all three shirts. For the text, mine would read "I make milk for two, what's your superpower?" and the boys' matching shirts would read "I &lt;3 My Mama's Milk".&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; We were meeting my friend Ashley at the children's museum that afternoon for a meeting and then to let the kids play a bit. I also had to pick up my sister from her friend's house afterwards and let my boys nap. Ashley decided that she wanted to make shirts for her and her daughter as well so we messaged Yadi what she wanted on hers. We decided the best plan would be for Ashley to meet with Yadi to pick up the iron on patches while I picked my sister up from her friend's house. We would then meet at my house to have a snack and let the kids sleep. From there, we would head to Michael's and buy the shirts and go eat at Sweet Tomatoes, then head back to my house to iron the patches onto the shirts and maybe do some crafts with the kids. Or so we thought.....</div><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; On my way to pick up my sister, I got a call from Ashley. She was lost and couldn't figure out how to get to where she was supposed to meet Yadi and her phone was dying. She had no car charger and would have no way of communicating with me or Yadi. Ashley wanted to go home and charge her phone but Yadi was about to head out to meet her and I had to very tired and cranky kids in the car. Ashley did find her way and made it to the meeting lace but then her phone died. Yadi couldn't find her in the parking lot and we had no way to contact her. My boys ended up falling asleep in the car and, after turning down the wrong street myself, I finally picked my sister up and headed home. I was glad to receive a call from Ashley saying she bought a car charger and was able to find Yadi. We met at my house and took the kids inside once they woke up. We had some snacks to hold us over until dinner and headed out to buy our shirts. However, it was pouring outside! I mean like torrential rain! We couldn't take the kids out in that, we would all be completely soaked and freezing at the store and restaurant.</div><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; We headed back inside to wait it out but soon it was after 9pm and Michael's closed. We ended up going to Walmart, where we thought it would be easy to find shirts. Well, it wasn't. We almost left with nothing. All the kids were tired and hungry and fussing a lot. Daniel kept running away through the store and started screaming loudly when I made him sit in the cart and we couldn't find plain, light colored kids' shirts. Finally I found baby blue t-shirts for the boys and Ashley got her daughter a white camisole and on we went to the women's section of the store. After searching and trying several shirts on, I decided on a white scoop neck shirt and Ashley got a white tank top. I wanted to match the boys but they didn't have blue in my size. Plus the white shirt seemed somewhat see-through so I ended up getting a white tank top to wear under it. Because it was so late, we decided that Dan, who met us at the store, would just buy some stuff to cook at home and we would just go to Sweet Tomatoes the next day after the latch on.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c94CQOR42Lg/UgM-mgEV7MI/AAAAAAAAAc0/Iyi_s5sNrXI/s1600/photo+(32).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c94CQOR42Lg/UgM-mgEV7MI/AAAAAAAAAc0/Iyi_s5sNrXI/s320/photo+(32).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys' shirts</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;When we got back to my house, Dan made us some really good mac and cheese. He also volunteered to iron on our patches since he had used that type of paper before and we hadn't. He did my boys' shirts first and they turned out awesome! My shirt was next and it was looking good until he peeled off the backing on the text and realized that he had ironed it on upside down! My shirt was ruined and I was disappointed but also tired and hungry so I just figured I'd wear a regular shirt. Well, my husband felt really bad and he wouldn't give up. I made a new design and he went to Walmart and bought two new shirts (in case he messed another one up, lol) and headed to Kinko's with the iron on paper to print the design. It turned out that Kinko's didn't have the right printers for that paper and couldn't do it (not to mention the weird looks he got for what he was trying to have printed!) so he decided he would just buy new ink since we need it for other things anyway. Well, they didn't have the right ink for our printer either so my husband headed back to Walmart and bought the ink there.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_p640j_O0fw/UgM5I_k059I/AAAAAAAAAb4/49mSkHNWwkA/s1600/photo+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_p640j_O0fw/UgM5I_k059I/AAAAAAAAAb4/49mSkHNWwkA/s320/photo+%252827%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oops!</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;We thought everything was great until Dan tried to print and our printer wasn't working. It kept saying it was out of paper even though it wasn't. It turned out that there was a crayon stuck in it! Well, then it wouldn't suck the paper in properly and the ink was getting smudged, I'm not sure how many pieces of paper we wasted! At this point, we gave up. Then Ashley said if I emailed her the design and gave her a couple of the iron on sheets, she would try to see if her printer had enough ink to print them for me and then come bring them to me really early the next morning. My husband finally got back to finishing the other shirts. Ashley's and her daughter's shirts turned out great too. I was still the only one with no shirt and Dan felt bad. He decided to try once again before Ashley left since she would be taking our last two iron on sheets. He found another crayon jammed in the printer (thanks kids!) and removed it. Now our printer worked just fine! He was able to print out my design and even made a really cool one for himself with his company logo, stating that his company proudly supports breastfeeding! Ashley and her daughter went home at around 2:30 am and Dan finished ironing the patches on our shirts. Then I finally put my boys to sleep (they refused to sleep while we had company!).<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vZ-QCn8gUU/UgM8MRQqQUI/AAAAAAAAAck/jc-uOOc9XEQ/s1600/photo+(29).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vZ-QCn8gUU/UgM8MRQqQUI/AAAAAAAAAck/jc-uOOc9XEQ/s320/photo+(29).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My good shirt</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5qTxT8GwbGI/UgM7pbKUWKI/AAAAAAAAAcg/YskW6sS6ytg/s1600/photo+%252826%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5qTxT8GwbGI/UgM7pbKUWKI/AAAAAAAAAcg/YskW6sS6ytg/s320/photo+%252826%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dan's shirt</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The shirts turned out super cute but the patches were pealing off of mine the next day. Yadi's shirt was peeling too. I think our big boobs were stretching it because the kids' shirts are fine. They probably won't last us very long after we wash them but I still love them. I am very, very grateful to my husband for going way out of his way to make sure I had a cute breastfeeding advocacy shirts for the Big Latch On this year. He said he will buy us screen printed shirts with the same designs for next year since these will most likely fall apart in the wash. It was super sweet and shows how supportive he is of my breastfeeding the boys! I made sure to tell everyone who asked about my shirt that my husband was up until 2:30 am making it for me. &nbsp;I am so thankful to have such a supportive husband!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HaYPn43YmQU/UgNAy6FD_xI/AAAAAAAAAdE/bcXVOqZupb0/s1600/photo+(31).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HaYPn43YmQU/UgNAy6FD_xI/AAAAAAAAAdE/bcXVOqZupb0/s320/photo+(31).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Us wearing our shirts<br />(although Joshua is blocking Dan's patch)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IieNwKdCnjE/UgNCD6VV53I/AAAAAAAAAdU/LhbtRe_NC8E/s1600/photo+(33).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IieNwKdCnjE/UgNCD6VV53I/AAAAAAAAAdU/LhbtRe_NC8E/s320/photo+(33).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a bad picture but you can see Dan's shirt better<br />(this is Daniel saying "cheeeeeese!!!!")</td></tr></tbody></table></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-34617249559640639832013-08-07T01:55:00.004-04:002013-08-07T01:55:51.921-04:00Big Latch On 2013<div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QM2FFmM2fII/UgHdphn3IcI/AAAAAAAAAYY/5ML2bj25sUg/s1600/17748_601830649856545_1610476189_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QM2FFmM2fII/UgHdphn3IcI/AAAAAAAAAYY/5ML2bj25sUg/s200/17748_601830649856545_1610476189_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;On Friday, August 2nd and Saturday, August 3rd, 2013 at 10:30 am local time, nursing moms gathered in locations across the globe for the Big Latch On, a synchronized breastfeeding event aimed at raising awareness and promoting the normalization of breastfeeding. If you are not familiar with the Big Latch On, please see my post about my first Big Latch On, where I explain the event in detail&nbsp;<a href="http://www.diaryofanaturalmom.com/2011/08/big-latch-on-2011.html">here</a>. It was just announced that we are not trying to beat a world record and that a statement will be issued by the event's organizers in the next few weeks to explain the reason for this and what the purpose of the event really is. World record or not, it is a great event to raise breastfeeding awareness and help normalize nursing and it is a lot of fun to participate in. This is my third year participating and my second year tandem nursing for the event. The final total for 2013 was 14,536 babies latched on across the globe. We not only broke the Big latch On record from last year, which was 8,862, but we nearly doubled it! How's that for breastfeeding awareness? Way to go mamas and nurslings!<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-14Ed-uo24PA/UgHd99vQndI/AAAAAAAAAYg/iIMKjQqD3kE/s1600/544780_503991793010528_760870485_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-14Ed-uo24PA/UgHd99vQndI/AAAAAAAAAYg/iIMKjQqD3kE/s320/544780_503991793010528_760870485_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Latched on for the count<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">We attended the Big Latch On in Tampa, FL which was held as part of the Hillsborough County Breastfeeding Task Force's World Breastfeeding Week Celebration at Family of Christ Church and School in New Tampa. There were close to 200 attendees including moms, babies, non-nursing older siblings, sponsors and vendors. 50 nursing moms signed in for the event and 39 total babies were latched on for the entire minute. I was a little nerous because my boys are so active and easily distracted but both of them were latched on for the entire minute and even for a while after! There was lots of food and cake as well as snow cones, raffles, a DJ, and activities for the kids. My friend Amanda of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NaturesWayphoto">Nature's Way Photography</a>&nbsp;photographed the event and also donated a free photo session for the raffle. My husband's company,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NaturesWayphoto">United Environmental Solutions</a>, had a vendor table at the event and he also had an Aquacera water filter to be raffled off. Other vendors and sponsors for the event were our local babywearing group,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TampaBayBabywearing">Tampa Bay Babywearing</a>, Tampa General Hospital, St. Joseph's Women's Hospital, the ABC Program, Florida Department of Health and WIC, One Apple Grocery, The Sno Kone Man (who provided snow cones for the event), Kathy Myers, Health Park Pediatrics, and Pediatrics of Tampa Bay.</span></div></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqOoPlAnHAs/UgHe7seRnZI/AAAAAAAAAYw/MHhMbzJV5oE/s1600/1009807_601826783190265_1777765074_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="201" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqOoPlAnHAs/UgHe7seRnZI/AAAAAAAAAYw/MHhMbzJV5oE/s320/1009807_601826783190265_1777765074_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hands raised to be counted</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The other raffle prizes this year were a $200 gift certificate for doula/lactation counseling services from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sedsofmommysoul.net/">Seeds of Mommy Soul</a>, two ornaments from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/onlyweeonce">Only Wee Once</a>, one bottle of lavender oil and one bottle of wild orange oil from DoTerra Essential Oils representative,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mydoterra.com/christiehaack/">Christie Haack</a>, a t-shirt and coffee mug with the International Breastfeeding Symbol from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HCBTaskForce">Hillsborough County Breastfeeding Task Force</a>, one pink and one blue baby gift basket containing matching burp cloths, pacifier clips, and receiving blankets from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CraftedByKristena">Crafted By Kristena</a>, a gift certificate for 1,000 custom designed business cards from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GerenaDesign">Gerena Graphic Design</a>, a body wrap, and a couple of Stroller Strides gift certificates. We were pressed for time when we arrived so I had to wait until the latch on was over to enter the raffles. I had to go change Joshua's poopie diaper and then take Daniel to the bathroom immediately afterwards and was sad to find that the winners were already being announced when I came back so no prizes for me this year. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the food and meeting like minded parents, my boys enjoyed playing outside on the playground with other babies, and my husband made some possible business connections. Best of all, we got to help normalize nursing and we got to show off the cool shirts my husband worked really hard to make for us (that story is so crazy that I think it deserves its own post so be on the lookout for it)! Thank you very much to the Hillsborough County Breastfeeding Task Force, Magen Gilbreath, and to all the sponsors and vendors for making this event a success!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZfHW6I0e-g/UgHgk8PlRBI/AAAAAAAAAZA/xlpUY1K7AQY/s1600/64711_601827473190196_259218772_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZfHW6I0e-g/UgHgk8PlRBI/AAAAAAAAAZA/xlpUY1K7AQY/s320/64711_601827473190196_259218772_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nursing my boys</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2232440106313112423.post-60233678980691342802013-08-06T01:09:00.001-04:002013-08-06T01:16:58.509-04:00Angela's Nursing Journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tonight we have a short but sweet guest post by Angela about her journey from overcoming the problems that prevented her from breastfeeding her first daughter to successfully exclusively breastfeeding her second. I hope you all enjoy it. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;Angela's Nursing Journey</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; I gave birth to my daughter Madison in November 2010 and, after watching my sister successfully breastfeed, I knew that was what I would do!&nbsp; I never expected to face the challenges that I did.&nbsp; It was not easy for me, it didn't come naturally but I really wanted to make it work.&nbsp; Madison had a poor latch from the beginning due to flat nipples and I tried to pull them out pumping, using a shield, I tried anything and everything. We were never able to successfully breastfeed. I pumped for 4 months, before giving up.&nbsp; My doctor at the time kept telling me how she wasn't gaining enough and that I needed to supplement, I never trusted that what I was giving her was enough, I was naive and didn't have a support system.&nbsp; I was exhausted and my breast hurt.&nbsp; I couldn't hold my newborn without crying. I had mastitis three different times and also ended up with MRSA on my breast. At that point, I made the decision to stop and just enjoy my baby.</div><div class="Standard"><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; After I had Madison and went through the struggles that I did without support, I was determined to make it work the second time around.&nbsp; In May of 2013, I gave birth to my daughter Emma.&nbsp; Prior to having her I reached out to the local LLL group and had a great support system in place.&nbsp; Again we had our struggles with poor latch due to flat nipples but I wanted it to work.&nbsp; Emma is now 12 weeks old and has been breastfed from the beginning. I still use a nipple shield but am able to remove it for part of my feeds.&nbsp; It has still been a challenge, Emma has a dairy intolerance and I have had to remove dairy from my diet in order to continue. It is a sacrifice that I am happy to make.&nbsp; She is thriving.&nbsp; I still second guess myself and worry that she isn't “gaining” enough because of my first experience.&nbsp; Knowledge is power and I feel that I better prepared myself the second time around.<o:p></o:p><br /><br />About the Author:<br /><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ajax/messaging/attachment.php?attach_id=aff33c63c60c7c4077aee07d0f5e2f05&amp;mid=mid.1375490514665%3Acee685b26396bf4550&amp;hash=AQDEvXRp-5eFKFsB" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://www.facebook.com/ajax/messaging/attachment.php?attach_id=aff33c63c60c7c4077aee07d0f5e2f05&amp;mid=mid.1375490514665%3Acee685b26396bf4550&amp;hash=AQDEvXRp-5eFKFsB" width="297" /></a><br /><i style="text-align: center;">Angela is a 29 year old mom to two girls, Madison (2 years old) and Emma (12 weeks old).</i></div>Taishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12988559594025358307noreply@blogger.com0